Trudy Donn receives Special Recognition Award in Health Care Science

Sheffield Children’s is incredibly proud to celebrate Trudy Donn, Senior Medical Technical Officer in Histopathology, for her well-deserved Special Recognition Award for exceptional services to Health Care Science at the prestigious Healthcare Science Awards 2025.

This award recognises Trudy’s extraordinary role in making sure that the environment and care provided at Sheffield Children’s mortuary is caring, nurturing and provides the vital and safe place to support families and their loved ones with dignity and kindness.

Trudy said: “I am truly bowled over by this award recognition. Having worked in the mortuary for 26 years, I have had the privilege of working with many incredible colleagues who have supported me. I could not do this job without the amazing histology and mortuary team. The award came as a complete surprise, and I felt humbled accepting it.”

The mortuary offers a warm, supportive, and comforting space designed to help families navigate the difficult time after their child has died. Trudy’s work ensures that families feel embraced with compassion and empathy, making a difficult journey as gentle as possible.

Trudy, affectionately described as an “unsung hero,” moved the judges and the audience alike with her unwavering dedication and the heartfelt impact of her work. Her poignant description of the mortuary as the “final ward” encapsulated her deep commitment to providing care and compassion to families. The room was filled with emotion, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house as her story resonated deeply with everyone present.

Trudy was nominated for the Special Recognition Award by Camilla Scott, Lead Healthcare Scientist in recognition of her work with families. She said: “Trudy has dedicated her life to supporting families at their most vulnerable moments, demonstrating an unparalleled commitment to care. Her award highlights the vital role of the mortuary in providing a supportive environment for families, ensuring this essential function of the hospital receives the recognition it truly deserves.”

This award was presented by Professor Dame Sue Hill, Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) for NHS England; a fitting tribute to Trudy’s contributions over the years.

Congratulations to Trudy Donn on this incredible achievement. She has touched countless lives and exemplifies the highest values of Sheffield Children’s, inspiring us all with her compassion and dedication.